Full cookery theatre programme confirmed for inaugural Leith Food Festival
A selection of Edinburgh’s most talented experts will take centre stage throughout the festival weekend.
Organisers of the Leith Food Festival have confirmed the full Live Cookery Theatre line-up for their debut celebration, set to take place on the 30 and 31 May at Leith Links, Edinburgh.
Delivered in partnership with host Barry Bryson, head chef and director of the Michelin Guide-listed Barry Fish Restaurant, the Cookery Theatre will host nine different demonstrations across the event.
Attendees are invited to learn the intricacies of a diverse mix of global cuisines, led by local business owners, leading restaurateurs, patisserie experts and award-winning head chefs.
Saturday 30 May
Dan Ashmore - SCHLOSS Roxburghe Hotel, Spa & Golf Course
Chef and director of SCHLOSS Roxburghe, Dan Ashmore is the mind behind Sunlaws Restaurant’s intricate testing menus, where each dish utilises locally-sourced produce to celebrate the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Scott Smith - Blank Plate Creative
Award-winning chef and restaurateur Scott Smith is the innovative founder of Blank Plate Creative, a critically-acclaimed hospitality consultancy agency that redefines dining experiences through carefully-crafted menus and storytelling.
Sharif Gergis - Mirin
Alongside partner Elizabeth Elliot, Sharif Gergis runs the renowned Mirin, an Asian-influenced Scottish restaurant in Leith celebrated for its delicate cooking and eclectically-combined flavours.
Sarah George - The Palmerston
Chef Pâtissière Sarah George is the creative spark behind the delicacies at The Palmerston, a cosy restaurant and bakery passionate about supporting local farmers, producers and small businesses.
Theo Pantazis - Krema Bakehouse
Co-owner of Krema BakeHouse on Leith Walk, Theo Pantazis’ craft is rooted in a love for flavour and community, offering bespoke cakes and sweet treats that balance traditional Greek techniques with modern patisserie.
Sunday 31 May
Tomás Gormley - Cardinal
Entrepreneur Tomás Gormley is the chef patron and proud owner of the Michelin Guide-recommended Cardinal, a fine-dining experience in Edinburgh that offers refined and sophisticated seasonal dishes.
Pedro Barriera - Fingal Hotel
Head chef of the two-time AA Rosette-honoured Lighthouse Restaurant, Pedro Barriera leads the Fingal Hotel’s award-winning culinary experience on the top deck of the boat.
Molly Pennington - MasterChef 2025 / Nutritional Therapist
MasterChef quarter-finalist and owner of Nourish With Molly, Molly Pennington is an assistant psychologist and nutritional therapist who's passionate about helping people live fulfilling lives.
Barry Bryson - Barry Fish
Celebrated chef and founder of Barry Fish Restaurant Barry Bryson closes out the weekend, sharing his ethos for sourcing the highest-quality ingredients to create classic seafood dishes tailored to all tastes.
For more information, tickets, and updates, visit: www.leithfoodfestival.com
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